> Yes, compliance with ATC is mandatory, but in an emergency, priority number one is to fly the airplane. https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?node=se14.2.91_

> Yes, compliance with ATC is mandatory, but in an emergency, priority number one is to fly the airplane. https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?node=se14.2.91_1123 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?node=se14.2.91_1123 : (b) Except in an emergency, no person may operate an aircraft contrary to an ATC instruction in an area in which air traffic control is exercised. (c) Each pilot in command who, in an emergency, or in response to a traffic alert and collision avoidance system resolution advisory, deviates from an ATC clearance or instruction shall notify ATC of that deviation as soon as possible. https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?node=se14.3.121_1557 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?node=se14.3.121_1557 : (a) In an emergency situation that requires immediate decision and action the pilot in command may take any action that he considers necessary under the circumstances. In such a case he may deviate from prescribed operations procedures and methods, weather minimums, and this chapter, to the extent required in the interests of safety. https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/14/91.3 https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/14/91.3 : §91.3 Responsibility and authority of the pilot in command. (a) The pilot in command of an aircraft is directly responsible for, and is the final authority as to, the operation of that aircraft. (b) In an in-flight emergency requiring immediate action, the pilot in command may deviate from any rule of this part to the extent required to meet that emergency.